Big Chop Update: 10 Months

Can you believe it’s been 10 months since I did the BIG CHOP?? It actually feels like a lot more, but truthfully it’s only almost a year. After revealing the big news to you guys back then I think I only did one hair update, so here’s another! Let me tell you about my protective styles, products, mishaps, length check and goals.

Hair Type:

Back when I had relaxed hair I never knew people were actually classifying hair by numbers and letters; who even came up with this system? I definitely didn’t care much to find out my type until I needed to search for hair care tips.

My hair is THICK AF. No exaggeration and the curls are also very tight. *Wish I had taken a texture shot when I last washed my hair*. My hair also doesn’t seem to take in moisture quite well; when I’d first apply the product it’s good, but couple hours later and it’s dry. (Any fixtures?)

However, based on images and descriptions on the web I’ve decided that I’m a 4C with low porosity hair.

Hair Care:

In all honesty I am the laziest person when it comes to hair, I’ve also been very nonchalant about it. I mean it’s natural and grows from your head, how much care does it really need? It’s no surprise therefore that I haven’t been seeing the growth I would have expected by now.

On avearge I wash my hair once a week, most times using only a cowash; Other days it’s shampoo and contiioner. I do a deep treatment almost every two weeks, sometimes leaving it overnight or really long during the day with a plastic cap. I’ve never done any of the extra stuff with food products, oils or ACV rinses.

Also, I’m definitely NOT a product junkie (they’re expensive/I’m too lazy to make natural products) but I do have a few. I realized pretty early that Cantu smells really wonderful but does NOTHING for me.

I try my best to twist my hair as often as I can, even if they’re jumbo. However, the smaller the better….but TIME! Some days are bomb (i.e good), other days are “what tf went wrong”? I’ve also tried to cornrow or flat twist my hair myself but that was a fail. Besides twist outs my next option are braids which I like because of the minimal care during the period. On the opposite end I hate being seated for so long to get them done.

The latest style was of course box braids, this time size medium. When it became too hot *because it’s Summer all the time here* I cut off the ends so that it was shoulder length. I thought this was kind of cute, just needed to burn the ends for longer wear. How long do you guys normally keep braids in for? I took mine out because they were starting to fray at the base.

YouTube is slowly becoming my best friend, just got to find the time and money to support it. As of recent I’ve become very excited with my hair and want to try other styles so stay tuned for this next protective style I have in mind.

As for other hairstyles, during the summer I tried to twist the front of my hair and have the back twisted out. I also added some gold hair clips to the front. It didn’t come out exactly how I pictured it, but I may attempt it again.

Length Check:

When I went to get my hair braided was the first time I ever got it blown out and I was so surprised. Unfortunately I didn’t snap a picture and didn’t want to use heat on my hair again, so the next time I get it done you’ll see. Looking at the pic below, based on my twist-out I’d say I’m a little bit past the awkward stage. However, when it’s stretched/combed out, it’s almost medium-long. (I don’t want to over-estimate it)

Hair Goals:

If it’s even possible I want a huge afro!! TOTAL BODILY ENGULFMENT. My hair/curls are way to thick though so I’m not sure how that will work, probably take years to grow and retain the length. I also wish my hair would be a little bit softer; my mom and sister said that after they colored theirs it became soft, but I’m too scared to do that.

Time: October, another twist out

My hair has definitely grown, but I think the products I use for my twist outs affects how it shows in length. Some days it looks long and others shrinkage is my best friend and you’d think I’m a little boy. All in all, throughout this journey I’m definitely learning to have patience and the willingness to try new things.

Are you a fellow naturalista? How long has it been? Any lessons learned? Recommendations on products, hairstyles and hair care?

The biggest thing I learned being natural is that trial and error is key to learning your hair. Once you learned your hair ex: how it is in the summer, winter, how it functions in humidity and what products works across the board… you are good to go. Unfortunately that doesn’t occur over night.

I’ve been natural for 6 years now. I have type 4 hair as well and it’s prone to dryness. I deep condition every week. I also massage my scalp with Jamaican black castor oil and seal my ends with coconut oil. Type 4 hair requires that extra love and attention.

HEY! I’m Aaliyah

I’m a Caribbean Blogger, Natural Hair Enthusiast, and Island Gyal born and raised in Antigua and Barbuda. I have a passion for self-development, exploring new places and living life. When I’m not working a 9-5, you can find me creating content in my safe haven.

To find out more about the girl behind the blog, visit the about section!